New thin film power resistor series offer best power/size combinations

Two new series of thin film wire−bondable resistor chips featuring exceptional power handling in a compact design were launched today by Vishay Intertechnology, Inc.

Intended for power supplies and high−power circuits in amplifiers where increased power loads require a more specialized resistor, the new PWA and PWB resistor chips provide one of the best combinations of power and size on the market, with available ratings of 500 mW and 1 W, respectively, in dimensions of just 0.030 in. by 0.045 in. and 0.07 in. by 0.07 in.

In addition to good power−handling capacity, the new resistor chips from Vishay Electro−Films feature two large bonding pads that allow for greater design flexibility in compact hybrid circuits, and smaller end products, while providing room for Kelvin connections in low−value precision applications.

Vishay's PWA resistor chips are rated for 0.5 W and are available in a resistance range of 0.3 Ω to 1 MΩ. The PWB resistor chips have a power rating of 1 W and are available in a resistance range of 0.3 Ω to 20 kΩ.

Both series feature an oxidized silicon substrate for good power dissipation, a self−passivating tantalum−nitride resistor material, and an operating temperature range of -55°C to +125°C. Wire−bondable aluminum or gold pads are available.

A gold backing option is recommended for eutectic die attachment to allow for some rise in the substrate temperature while maintaining optimum long−term resistance stability.

Manufactured with Vishay Electro−Films' sophisticated thin film equipment and manufacturing technology, the PWA and PWB thin film power resistor chips are 100% electrically tested and visually inspected to MIL−PRF−38534.

Samples and production quantities of the new PWA and PWB thin film wire−bondable power resistors are available now, with a lead time of eight weeks for larger orders.